Business modelling, lean pricing and effectuation: The aspiring entrepreneurs of YES!Delft and ECE had a full programme during the third session of the collaborative start programme at YES!Delft.  

Thomas Blekman, clinical professor at Erasmus University’s Rotterdam School of Management and ECE, is an effectuation expert who specializes in facilitating the implementation of the effectuation principles within corporate and organizational settings. “I work at ECE because it provides me the chance to actually transfer my knowledge and expertise to the next generation of entrepreneurs.”

Thomas argues that there is no idea in the room which is unique. “If you come across a competitor, great news! Now you can start analyzing, do research beyond the ‘greatness’ of the competitor.” Thomas points out that as an entrepreneur you can be successful by understanding the real problem and, more important, fully understand your customers. Here, validation is key!

The participants worked on their business model, where most of them discovered that already many aspects have changed since the start of the programme three weeks ago. “We look at expert entrepreneurs as risk takers; however, many small, influencing steps are never mentioned. Moving forward is only possible by taking these small steps.”

At the end of the session, Guarav Genani, founder of SkelEx and former participant of the starters programme of YES!Delft, shared his experience as an entrepreneur with the participants.

For the first time, YES!Delft and ECE joined forces with their startup programmes to create a bridge between business and technology focused startups. The unique collaboration between YES!Delft and ECE will provide advantages for the high-tech startups to start their venture in a business-minded environment and vice versa. Read more about this new collaboration here.

Do you want to be one of the aspiring entrepreneurs next year? Apply now for the class of 2018!

JP Motorcycles – Lauran Paauwen & Michael Jenkins

JP Motorcycles designs a safe and attractive electric motorcycle, aimed at motorcycle commuters who are looking for a safe, fast, and easy way to get from home to work, but still want to enjoy the true experience of driving a motorcycle. With custom engine sounds and a unique storage system this motorcycle will be better equipped for the daily commute and ensures people arrive home in a practical and fun manner.

Tulpp – Bo-Iris Bergevoet

Tulpp is a product that gives the customer a parfume experience, that reminds you to a special destination or is a perfect gift for home. Inspired by the Dutch culture, we want to create an extensive collection of product for home and body. We would like to give tourists something unique to bring home.